The U.S.S. Harry S. Truman, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, was recently involved in a collision with a commercial vessel in the Mediterranean Sea near Port Said, Egypt. The incident occurred late Wednesday night on February 12, 2025, at approximately 11:46 p.m. local time. While no injuries were reported, the collision has sparked an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding it.
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Vessel Information
U.S.S. Harry S. Truman
The U.S.S. Harry S. Truman is a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier that had been stationed in the Red Sea since December 14, 2024. It was conducting operations in support of airstrikes against Houthi militants in Yemen, who have been targeting commercial maritime traffic and vessels associated with Israel. The aircraft carrier is a crucial component of U.S. naval operations in the region and plays a key role in maintaining maritime security.
Besiktas-M
The commercial vessel involved in the collision is the Besiktas-M, a bulk carrier registered under the Panamanian flag and managed by Synergy Ship Management Turkey. It was en route from Aqaba, Jordan, to a port in Romania on the Black Sea at the time of the incident.
Official Statements and Immediate Aftermath
The U.S. Navy quickly confirmed the collision, stating that there were no injuries or flooding on the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman. Additionally, its propulsion systems remained fully operational, ensuring the carrier’s safe navigation. The crew of the Besiktas-M also reported no injuries.
However, the Truman sustained minor damage above the waterline. It remains unclear whether the aircraft carrier will require significant repairs before continuing operations. Officials have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the incident and assess any potential operational impact.
Recent Activity of the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman
Before the collision, the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman had been actively engaged in naval operations in both the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. The carrier had recently completed a port visit to Souda Bay, Greece, and was stationed in the eastern Mediterranean following two months of combat operations under the U.S. Central Command’s jurisdiction.
Notably, on February 1, 2025, the Truman’s strike group carried out airstrikes targeting ISIS in Somalia, further demonstrating its active role in U.S. military operations.
Houthi Attacks and U.S. Response
In January 2025, the Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed responsibility for multiple missile and drone attacks targeting the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman and other U.S. warships operating in the Red Sea. These attacks were described as retaliation for U.S. military actions in Yemen and were declared as a show of solidarity with Gaza.
In response, the U.S. military launched airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, further escalating tensions in the region. While the recent collision is not linked to these attacks, it adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation.
Historical Context: A Rare Incident
This collision marks a rare occurrence in recent U.S. Navy operations, particularly considering the safety measures implemented after previous accidents. The last major collisions involving U.S. naval vessels occurred in 2017, leading to the deaths of 17 sailors. Those incidents prompted an internal reassessment and significant changes to naval operational procedures.
The current investigation will likely examine whether any procedural lapses contributed to the recent accident and what steps can be taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Conclusion
While the collision between the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman and the Besiktas-M did not result in any casualties or immediate operational setbacks, it highlights the challenges faced by naval forces operating in high-traffic maritime zones. With ongoing regional conflicts and heightened military activity, maintaining navigational safety remains a top priority for the U.S. Navy.
The investigation into the incident will provide more clarity on what led to the collision and whether any corrective measures are needed. Until then, the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman continues to fulfill its critical role in U.S. naval operations across the Mediterranean and Middle East.